Researchers have identified a previously overlooked protein that helps regulate appetite and energy use in the body. This "helper" protein supports a key system that decides whether the body burns energy or stores it, and when it does not function properly, appetite signals can weaken. New research suggests that a protein the body relies on to manage appetite and energy levels cannot function on its own. Instead, it depends on a partner protein to work properly. This discovery could help scientists better understand how genetic factors contribute to obesity. In a study published in Science Signalling on December 16, an international research team led by scientists at the University of Birmingham examined how a helper protein known as MRAP2 supports an appetite-regulating protein called MC3R. MC3R plays a key role in deciding whether the body stores energy or uses it. Building on earlier hunger research Previous studies had already shown that MRAP2 is essential for the activity of a related protein (MC4R), which is known to control hunger. The new research set out to determine whether MRAP2 provides the same kind of support for the closely related protein MC4R. To explore this question, the researchers used cell models to observe how the proteins interact. They found that when MRAP2 was present in equal amounts with MC3R, cellular signaling became stronger. This result suggests that MRAP2 helps MC3R do its job of balancing energy intake with energy use. The team also identified specific regions of MRAP2 that are required for supporting signalling through both MC3R and MC4R. How genetic mutations weaken appetite signals The researchers then investigated what happens when MRAP2 carries genetic mutations that have been identified in some people with obesity. In these experiments, mutated versions of the supporter protein (MRAP2) failed to boost MC3R signalling. As a result, the appetite-regulating protein did not respond as effectively. These findings indicate that changes in MRAP2 can interfere with the hormone system that normally helps maintain energy balance. When this system does not work as intended, appetite regulation may be disrupted. New clues for obesity risk and future treatments Dr. Caroline Gorvin, Associate Professor at the University of Birmingham and lead author of the study, said: "The findings give us some important insights into what's going on in the hormonal system, related to some key functions like energy balance, appetite, and puberty timing. "The identification of this protein, MRAP2, as a key aide or supporter to these essential appetite-regulating proteins also gives us new clues for people who have a genetic predisposition to obesity, and how MRAP2 mutations are a clear indication of risk." By learning more about how MRAP2 supports appetite related signaling, researchers hope to determine whether future drugs could target this protein. Such treatments might strengthen feelings of fullness, reduce overeating, and improve the body's overall energy balance, offering new options for weight loss when dieting alone is not effective. A collaborative effort in metabolism and cell signalling research The research was carried out by a team from the Department of Metabolism and Systems Science and the Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE). COMPARE is a cross-university Research Centre involving the Universities of Birmingham and Nottingham, focused on studying how cells communicate in both health and disease. Its goal is to develop new therapies for widespread conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. The centre is supported by advanced research facilities, including the COMPARE Advanced Imaging Facility, which is available to researchers from academia and industry. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
20 December,2025 01:50 PM IST | Washington DC (USA) | ANIResearchers from the Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR) have uncovered a surprising player in autophagy, or the “self-eating” process that removes damaged parts of cells that can pave the way for developing therapies for diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson's, and cancer. Autophagy is a key biological process where cells clear out damaged and unwanted materials. When a cell fails to clear waste, its health suffers, especially in long-lived neurons. The autophagy pathway, which removes damaged material and defends against infections, is disrupted in diseases like Alzheimer’s and Huntington’s. In cancer, autophagy plays dual roles. Autophagy initially prevents cancer but later supports tumour growth. Autophagy also acts as a tumour suppressor by maintaining genome integrity and cellular homeostasis by clearing cellular junk such as protein aggregates and damaged mitochondria. But it is also a double-edged sword as certain types of cancer cells hijack autophagy for their own survival and propagation. Understanding its regulation is crucial for the development of effective therapies. The team from JNCASR, an autonomous institution under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), found that a group of proteins called the exocyst complex, which normally helps move important molecules to the cell surface, also plays a key role in autophagy. This complex comprises a team of 8 proteins; interestingly, 7 of the 8 proteins are required to help the cell grow the trash bag so that it can completely wrap up the waste. When this complex is missing, the cell’s bag-making factory stops working properly and even starts producing faulty, non-functional factories. The researchers led by Prof. Ravi Manjithaya used simple yeast cells to elucidate the formation of autophagosomes (cellular “trash bags”), thereby providing insights into how this vital process operates in higher organisms. They elucidated the mechanism by which a protein complex, exocyst, previously recognised for its role in secretion, also contributes to the autophagy pathway, which is crucial for maintaining cellular health. Since defects in autophagy are linked to several neurodegenerative diseases and cancers, the findings published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences will open new avenues for modulating this pathway to restore cellular balance and develop potential therapeutic. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
20 December,2025 01:49 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSIn a remarkable achievement, doctors in Pune have successfully saved the life of a 23-week premature baby boy weighing only 550 grams at birth, and complications like breathing difficulties. The baby, delivered after premature rupture of membranes at a private hospital in Kondhwa, required immediate life support. The NICU transport team, also known as “NICU on wheels”, retrieved the extremely premature newborn in a specialised neonatal ambulance. After 100 days of care, the baby was discharged at 37 weeks, weighing 2.2 kgs, breastfeeding well, and showing a healthy developmental progress. The couple, who were expecting their first child, and eagerly looking forward to parenthood had to face a challenge. They never imagined that their joyful journey would suddenly turn into fear and uncertainty. One evening, the wife experienced unusual discomfort, and within hours, her water broke. Since she had no prior chronic illnesses, no thyroid or diabetes concerns, and her antenatal check-ups had been normal so far, she was in the low-risk pregnancy category. This unexpected complication came without any warning signs, adding to the shock and anxiety for the couple. Terrified and in pain, the husband rushed her to a nearby private hospital. Upon evaluation, the obstetrics team confirmed that Rima had gone into extremely preterm labour at just 23 weeks of pregnancy. Her condition progressed rapidly, and the team performed a spontaneous vaginal delivery. The baby boy was born weighing only 550 grams, requiring urgent and specialised neonatal intervention due to his extreme prematurity. Recognising the critical condition of the newborn, the doctors immediately contacted Motherhood Hospital, Lullanagar in Pune. Within minutes, the specialised NICU on Wheels ambulance arrived to take care of the baby and mother. Led by Dr Prashant Laxmanrao Ramtekkar, consultant – Paediatrician & Neonatologist, at the hospital, the neonatal team carefully stabilised the micro-preemie, placed him on a ventilator, and transported him with the highest level of precision and monitoring. Dr Prashant shared, “When we received the call, we knew this baby needed immediate and advanced support to survive. Babies born at 23 weeks and weighing under 600 grams fall into the micro-preemie category and face extremely high risks — including breathing failure, brain bleeding, infections, and feeding difficulties. Our NICU on Wheels team reached the hospital, stabilised and intubated the newborn, and transferred him safely. The first few hours were critical, but timely action made a tremendous difference in his survival.” He added, “The baby had underdeveloped lungs, severe breathing difficulty, and required ventilator support from the first minute of life. We administered surfactant to help lung maturation and continued ventilation for seven days, after which he was shifted to non-invasive support like CPAP and HFNC. He also developed late-onset sepsis. This caused his blood to fail to clot properly, making the situation very critical. Treating such babies is extremely challenging because every organ is immature. We carefully managed fluids to prevent heart issues like PDA (Patent Ductus Arteriosus) is a small blood vessel in a baby’s heart that normally closes soon after birth monitored brain scans, performed ROP screening, and ensured hearing development. Each milestone he achieved felt like a victory.” “For extremely premature babies, nutrition is as important as breathing support. The baby was started on total parenteral nutrition and later transitioned to expressed mother’s milk through a feeding tube. Gradually, we increased feeds as he tolerated them. Kangaroo Mother Care was introduced early, which helped him gain stability, bond with his parents, and grow physically and emotionally. By the time of discharge, he was breastfeeding well, gaining weight, and all his screenings for brain, eyes, and hearing were normal. The baby was discharged at 37 weeks of life, weighing 2.2 kgs, and was accepting breastfeeding well. The total NICU stay was 100 days. This shows a promising long-term outcome. We have advised regular follow-ups to monitor his growth and development”, highlighted Dr Ramtekkar. India records one of the highest burdens of prematurity in the world, with about 13 per cent of babies born preterm and over 3 million preterm births in 2020 alone. These newborns are extremely vulnerable and require immediate, specialized care to survive and thrive. That’s why timely intervention, skilled neonatal support, and a fully equipped hospital with advanced NICU systems are essential. With the right expertise and rapid response, even the tiniest babies get a real chance at life. “When I saw my baby for the first time, just 550 grams, my heart just sank. Every day in the NICU was an emotional rollercoaster, where even the smallest milestone felt like a big victory. I held on to hope each time he opened his eyes and breathed a little better. The team of doctors and nurses at Motherhood Lullanagar became our biggest strength through the toughest days. Today, watching him breastfeed and grow feels like witnessing a miracle, and I am grateful to the entire team for giving my son his chance at life," the mother concluded.
19 December,2025 12:49 PM IST | PuneEven as the bird flu virus H5N1 is evolving rapidly, with the potential to become a significant threat to human health, a team of Indian researchers using an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based model has decoded how the deadly virus can actually spillover to humans. In the study, published in the BMC Public Health journal, the team used BharatSim -- an ultra-large-scale agent-based simulation framework for infectious diseases that was originally built for Covid-19 modelling -- to describe the sequential stages of a zoonotic spillover. “We modelled the possibility of initial spillover events of H5N1 from birds to humans, followed by sustained human-to-human transmission,” said Philip Cherian and Gautam I. Menon from the Department of Physics at the Haryana-based Ashoka University, in the paper. “Our model describes the two-step nature of outbreak initiation, showing how crucial epidemiological parameters governing transmission can be calibrated given data for the distribution of the number of primary and secondary cases at early times,” they added. Avian flu, which first emerged in China in the late 1990s, has since occasionally infected humans. As South and South-East Asia have the world’s fastest-growing poultry markets, the region is predicted to be the likely location for an initial outbreak. Notably, the World Health Organization (WHO) has reported 990 human H5N1 cases across 25 countries, including 475 deaths with a 48 per cent fatality rate, between 2003 and August 2025. The computational model showed that culling birds is the most effective measure to curb H5N1 outbreaks, both in the case of a farm outbreak or a wet market. However, this will work only when no primary infection has occurred. “In our study of the tertiary attack risk, we found that even if an infection of a primary case occurs, onward infections are limited if cases are isolated and their household contacts quarantined. However, once tertiary contacts are infected, establishing control becomes impossible unless far more stringent measures are applied, including a total lockdown,” the experts noted. They stressed that it is in the very early stages of an outbreak that control measures make the most difference. "Once community transmission takes over, cruder public-health measures such as lockdowns, compulsory masking, and large-scale vaccination drives are the only options left,” the researchers added. The study shows how such models allow for the systematic real-time exploration of policy measures that could constrain disease spread, as well as guide a better understanding of disease epidemiology for an emerging infectious disease. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
19 December,2025 10:22 AM IST | New Delhi | IANSAir pollution is no longer just an environmental concern; it is steadily shortening life expectancy, reducing productivity and quality of life, said health experts here on Thursday, even as the national capital has been witnessing deteriorating air quality for over a month. Visuals from different parts of Delhi and the NCR showed sharply reduced visibility as dense smog engulfed roads, residential areas, and public spaces, affecting daily movement and raising health concerns among residents. Delhi recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 356, as per data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The experts noted that prolonged exposure to air pollution is eroding India’s economic growth while triggering a sharp rise in serious health conditions such as stroke, cardiovascular disease, respiratory illness, and neurological disorders. This is placing a growing strain on healthcare systems -- ultimately weakening India’s long-term development potential. “Prolonged exposure does not just shorten life expectancy; it increases the number of years lived with disability. In highly polluted cities, people may survive longer but with chronic illness that reduces productivity, quality of life, and economic contribution,” said Rajesh Bhushan, Former Secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. “Addressing air pollution, therefore, requires coordinated action across healthcare systems, urban planning, and public awareness, with a much stronger focus on preventive and primary healthcare,” he added at an event organised by the Illness to Wellness Foundation. Delhi-based pulmonologist Dr. G. C. Khilnani described air pollution as a "man-made public health emergency" that is likely to have a widespread impact on respiratory and cardiovascular health. “The most dangerous effects of air pollution are often invisible -- ultra-fine particles penetrate deep into the lungs, enter the bloodstream, and damage multiple organs without early warning signs,” he said. Neurologist Dr. Daljit Singh noted that pollution affects brain blood circulation and significantly increases the risk of both ischemic and haemorrhagic strokes. “We are now observing clear seasonal spikes in stroke admissions during high-pollution months, indicating that pollution is emerging as an independent risk factor. Beyond stroke, air pollution is also associated with neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and Parkinson’s disease, making this a growing neurological challenge that must be urgently addressed,” Singh added. Dr. Harsh Mahajan, Mentor – FICCI Health Sector, stated that air pollution has become a silent risk factor aggravating nearly every disease category. “It disproportionately affects the poor, children, and outdoor workers, even though they contribute the least to the problem. The dangerous myth is that technology alone will solve this crisis. What we lack is urgency and accountability,” said Mahajan. The experts emphasised the need for long-term commitment, strong enforcement, and informed public participation to ensure healthier lives and a more resilient economy.
19 December,2025 09:49 AM IST | New Delhi | IANSWhile cheese -- high in saturated fat and sodium -- is known to raise the risk of high cholesterol or blood pressure, a new study has linked it to a lower risk of developing dementia. The study, published in the journal Neurology, showed that some high-fat dairy products, such as cheddar, Brie, and Gouda, as well as whipping cream, double cream, and clotted cream, may actually lower the risk of dementia. The findings challenge some long-held assumptions about fat and brain health. However, researchers from Lund University, Sweden, clarified that “the study does not prove that eating high-fat cheese and high-fat cream lowers the risk of dementia, it only shows an association”. Researchers analysed data from 27,670 people in Sweden with an average age of 58 at the start of the study. They were followed for an average of 25 years. During the study, 3,208 people developed dementia. The results showed that people who ate more high-fat cheese had a 13 per cent lower risk of developing dementia compared to those who consumed less. When looking at specific types of dementia, they found people who ate more high-fat cheese had a 29 per cent lower risk of vascular dementia. In addition, a lower risk of Alzheimer's disease was also found among those who ate more high-fat cheese, but only among those not carrying the APOE e4 gene variant -- a genetic risk factor for Alzheimer's disease. Similarly, people who consumed high-fat cream daily had a 16 per cent lower risk of dementia compared to those who drank none. However, no associations were found between dementia risk and eating low-fat cheese, low-fat cream, high- or low-fat milk, butter, or fermented milk, which includes yogurt, kefir, and buttermilk. "These findings suggest that when it comes to brain health, not all dairy is equal," said Emily Sonestedt, from Lund University. "While eating more high-fat cheese and cream was linked to a reduced risk of dementia, other dairy products and low-fat alternatives did not show the same effect," she added. The team urged for more research to confirm the results. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
18 December,2025 03:34 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSA Pune couple, who had been trying to conceive for seven years, were advised to consider adoption due to severe damage caused in the fallopian tubes and endometrium by the woman's past Tuberculosis infection. Laparoscopy had revealed fluid-filled fallopian tubes, a scarred uterus (Asherman’s syndrome), and an endometrium too thin to support a pregnancy, leaving specialists unable to operate further. The fertility specialists at Nova IVF Fertility, Lullanagar in Pune, suggested Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy to help regenerate and rejuvenate her endometrium. After carefully monitoring the growth of her endometrium for a year, IVF was initiated at the right time, and the couple successfully conceived and recently welcomed a healthy baby boy. A year-long therapy to grow the endometrium The patient had been diagnosed with tuberculosis in 2019 and completed the treatment. However, the infection had caused irreversible damage to her reproductive area. Her periods had become scanty, an indication that her endometrium was not growing properly, yet this wasn’t considered anything serious. When the couple arrived at the facility in 2023, they faced multiple challenges. The wife’s endometrial thickness measured only 5.5 mm (well below the recommended 7 mm), and the husband had slightly compromised semen parametres. However, the wife had a good number of eggs, and the couple had considered this as their last option to have a biological child. During the IVF cycle, her eggs were successfully retrieved and fertilized with the husband’s sperm, resulting in healthy embryos. However, the critical challenge remained: preparing the uterine lining to support pregnancy. The medical team at Nova IVF Fertility, Pune, led by Dr Rupali Tambe, spent nearly a year improving her endometrial thickness. Dr Tambe added, "Not just Tuberculosis, even sexually transmitted diseases like chlamydia, and gonorrhoea can cause long-term reproductive damage even after treatment, most often without any symptoms too. Many patients heal from the active infection, but present years later with infertility as the only symptom. The key is early detection and personalised treatment." She underwent hysteroscopy with metroplasty (a procedure to correct the uterus, so that it is fit enough to carry on a pregnancy) along with Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy, which is clinically proven to improve the lining of the endometrium. PRP treatment is used in IVF when a patient has a thin endometrium, repeated IVF failures, and in a few cases where women have a low reserve of eggs. Dr Tambe explained, "Most often in IVF treatments, the focus is more on the quality of the gametes; however, in cases like these, we understand that the role of the uterus and endometrium in achieving a pregnancy is equally important. The endometrium is like a soil for the seed. Just as a farmer waits for the right conditions before sowing, we had to ensure the uterus environment is appropriate. Even if the seed is good, and the soil is not nourishing enough, the seed cannot survive. After extensive treatment, the endometrial thickness reached 6.7mm, the maximum achievable in this case. With the right treatment and guidance at the right time, most patients can achieve biological parenthood. It is extremely important to convey the expectations in the beginning, post the diagnosis”. A single embryo transfer was performed, resulting in a successful pregnancy on the first attempt, a healthy one, which resulted in a baby boy who is about 2 months old. Genital tuberculosis and achieving pregnancyGenital tuberculosis remains an under-diagnosed presentation of TB with profound effects on reproduction. According to recent medical research, it is estimated that 5 per cent of women presenting to infertility clinics worldwide have genital TB, with the majority aged between 20-40 years. In India, where tuberculosis remains prevalent, the condition often goes undetected as it can remain dormant for years after the initial infection heals.
18 December,2025 12:52 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA team of researchers from Bose Institute in Kolkata has developed a peptide therapy that offers a promising, multidisciplinary approach to treating fungal keratitis -- a severe, sight-threatening infection of the cornea -- the clear front part of the eye. The team, including researchers from the L V Prasad Eye Institute in Hyderabad, designed a 15-residue peptide, named SA-XV, derived from a larger host-defense peptide -- S100A12. This peptide, previously shown to inhibit fungal growth, has been characterised for its antifungal potency and mechanism of action. Published in the Journal of Biological Chemistry, the researchers hailed the new therapy as an alternative to antimycotics (antifungals) with reduced side effects. Corneal infections, often referred to as a slow epidemic, affect a significant portion of the population in India, particularly among those with agricultural backgrounds. Overuse and poor hygiene practices related to contact lenses are also a major contributor to corneal infections. Currently, amphotericin B is the only drug available to treat fungal infections. However, its use is limited due to kidney damage and high haemolytic activity, where red blood cells (RBCs) are being destroyed too quickly. This creates an urgent need for the development of potent antimycotic drugs that are safe for mammalian cells. In mouse models, SA-XV showed a reduction in the severity of keratitis. “The antimicrobial peptides are non-toxic, serum-stable, and effective in inhibiting the growth of both planktonic and biofilm forms of Fusarium and Candida species,” said the team led by Professor Anirban Bhunia, from Bose Institute, an autonomous institute under the Department of Science and Technology. “SA-XV works by first interacting with the fungal cell wall and plasma membrane, then it translocates across the cell membrane and accumulates in the cytoplasm. The peptide subsequently colocalises in the nucleus, binding to genomic DNA and halting the cell cycle. Finally, it targets the mitochondria, permeabilises them, and induces fungal cell death through apoptosis,” the researchers explained. The study highlights that SA-XV is not only an antifungal agent but can also be used for promoting wound healing in corneal infections. The findings suggest that SA-XV could become a novel therapeutic option for treating fungal infections and accelerating corneal wound healing, offering an alternative to current treatments. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
18 December,2025 12:34 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSWinter can feel like a natural time to slow down, but when profound fatigue, bone pain, and persistent low mood set in, it might be more than just the winter blues. This complex set of symptoms is often dismissed, yet experts warn they could be subtle indicators of one of the most widespread nutritional deficiencies: Vitamin D deficiency. As sunlight exposure dwindles in the colder months, the body's primary way of producing this essential nutrient is impaired, leading to consequences that affect everything from energy levels and immune function to bone health. This winter, medical experts guide you through the latest diagnostic standards, the non-deficiency causes of fatigue, and the practical steps you can take to maximise your health and vitality throughout the winter and into the new year. Standard blood tests to screen for physiological causes of fatigue When a patient presents with persistent fatigue, clinicians typically begin with a broad set of basic blood tests to identify the most common physiological contributors. According to Dr Geetanjali Patil, consultant pulmonologist at Ruby Hall Clinic Wanowire, these include:1. Complete Blood Count (CBC) to rule out anaemia or infection.2. Thyroid Function Tests (TSH, Free T4) to assess for hypothyroidism.3. Vitamin D (25-OH Vitamin D) to detect deficiency that often worsens in winter.4. Vitamin B12 levels are checked to identify deficiencies linked to low energy, neuropathy, or cognitive slowing.5. Iron studies, including serum ferritin, serum iron, Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC), and transferrin saturation, help diagnose iron-deficiency anaemia or low iron stores even before anaemia is visible on CBC.6. Many clinicians also add fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, and basic metabolic panel to rule out diabetes, electrolyte imbalances, kidney dysfunction, or dehydration, all of which can contribute to fatigue. Differential diagnosis when blood tests are normal If initial blood work appears normal, non-deficiency causes of fatigue become important considerations. “Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is particularly relevant in winter and is linked to reduced sunlight exposure, disrupted circadian rhythm, low serotonin activity, and excessive melatonin production,” notes Dr Geetanjali. She lists other possible causes:1. Chronic stress and burnout, which can manifest as profound physical fatigue because prolonged cortisol dysregulation affects sleep, immunity, and energy levels.2. Sleep-related issues, particularly insomnia, poor sleep hygiene, and circadian rhythm disorders.3. Depression, generalized anxiety, post-viral fatigue, perimenopause/menopause in women, chronic pain conditions, restless legs syndrome, medication side effects, and chronic fatigue syndrome, especially if symptoms are prolonged and unexplained. Musculoskeletal pain with fatigue: Conditions to rule out Non-injury bone or joint pain paired with fatigue often points toward systemic medical conditions. Dr Geetanjali highlights that one of the first considerations is Vitamin D deficiency, as low Vitamin D commonly causes diffuse bone aches, muscle weakness, and fatigue. Conditions to rule out include:1. Autoimmune or inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, fibromyalgia, or polymyalgia rheumatica.2. Thyroid dysfunction, particularly hypothyroidism, which can cause generalized muscle aches and joint stiffness.3. Osteomalacia (softening of bones due to long-standing Vitamin D deficiency) and early osteoporosis.4. Chronic infections (such as EBV, TB, or Lyme in endemic regions), metabolic issues like hyperparathyroidism, and rare haematological disorders such as multiple myeloma may be considered if symptoms persist or are accompanied by red flags such as night sweats or unexplained weight loss. Role of undiagnosed sleep issues Sleep disorders are one of the most overlooked contributors to chronic fatigue. Dr Patil explains, “Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is especially common and can occur even in people who are not overweight. It leads to repeated nighttime breathing interruptions, poor oxygenation, and non-restorative sleep, often leaving patients exhausted despite seemingly sleeping for 7 to 8 hours.” A formal sleep study (polysomnography) is typically recommended when a patient experiences symptoms such as:1. Loud snoring, witnessed apnoea’s, choking episodes at night.2. Morning headaches or excessive daytime sleepiness.3. Unexplained fatigue that persists despite normal labs.4. Resistant hypertension. Expected timeline for improvement in deficiency symptoms Recovery from Vitamin D deficiency is gradual because the body has to rebuild the Vitamin D gap. Dr Bhaskar S, general physician and internal medicine specialist at Apollo One, Bengaluru outlines the different expected recovery timelines: 1. Many patients notice mood changes, increased awareness, and energy enhancement after 2 to 4 weeks of Vitamin D supplementation.2. Bone pain, muscle weakness, or muscle achiness usually take 6 to 12 weeks to show signs of improvement.3. Complete resolution of severe deficiencies may take anywhere from 3 to 6 months to fully correct.4. Periodic serum 25(OH)D monitoring is vital for insuring safe and effective results. Dr Mahesh D M, consultant, endocrinology at Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru adds, “Patients with chronic kidney disease, malabsorption disorders, post-bariatric surgery recovery, liver disease, or inflammatory bowel disease may need increased or specially formulated doses due to the lower absorption capacity.” Most effective dietary sources and essential micronutrients Bhaskar believes that Vitamin D needs to come from diet and supplements during winter months when low amounts of UVB light are available. He shares Vitamin D sources:1. Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol), which is produced from animal sources (like salmon, eggs, etc.) and fortified foods (like soy milk and cereals).2. Some mushrooms contain UV (ultraviolet) light which creates Vitamin D2. Mahesh and Bhaskar both stress that other micronutrients work together with vitamin D to provide synergy:1. Magnesium: Promotes vitamin D activation. Food sources include nuts, seeds, leafy greens.2. Vitamin K2: Responsible for directing calcium to the bones. Good food sources include beef, eggs, cheese, and spinach.3. Calcium: Strengthens bones when used in conjunction with vitamin D.4. Zinc: Helps convert vitamin D and supports the immune system. These nutrients are essential for optimizing absorption and positively impacting both skeletal health and extra-skeletal health. Evidence-based lifestyle changes to boost energy Dr Bhaskar and Dr Mahesh share realistic, healthy lifestyle changes to reduce tiredness and to naturally increase Vitamin D levels:1. Spend time in sun: Expose yourself to sunlight for at least 15 to 20 minutes per day. The time you need will vary by season and skin type.2. Consume foods and fluids that are high in vitamin D: Follow a healthy eating pattern that includes Vitamin D foods, magnesium, and K2, and consume adequate fluids (2 to 3 litres of water daily) to ensure that the body has maximum absorption of Vitamin D.3. Be active: Engage in a moderate level of physical activity (walking, yoga, swimming), this will have a positive effect on increasing your stamina and decreasing muscle strain. Set a timer to remind you to stretch or take a deep breath every 20 minutes of time you are working that day.4. Sleep and balance energy levels: Develop good sleep habits, also called sleep hygiene. Caffeine consumption and/or alcohol consumption in the evening should be limited to help keep your energy levels balanced and stable.5. Schedule your meals: Keep your meals on a consistent schedule throughout the day. Do not eat heavy meals at night. Dr Mahesh states that small changes to your daily routine are better than trying to find a quick solution to restore your daily vitality. Medications and supplements that may worsen fatigue Certain everyday medications can actually slow down the central nervous system or disturb metabolic pathways, ultimately leading to fatigue. Dr Bhaskar lists the following potential culprits:1. Common antihistamines like diphenhydramine and cetirizine often cause sedation and lethargy.2. Certain antidepressants can create a sedating effect which contributes to slight dizziness.3. Rarely, statins used to manage cholesterol may cause muscle pain and lead to tiredness.4. Over usage of sedatives (such as benzodiazepines) and sleep aids like melatonin can also lead to weakness or an uneasy feeling the next morning.5. Unwanted doses of supplements such as iron and even Vitamin D may lead to tenderness and pain in the body. Dr Mahesh adds that fatigue can also be caused by:1. High dose or unwanted medications like heart medications, anxiety drugs, muscle relaxants, and certain diabetes medicines that disturb blood sugar flows.2. Supplements like magnesium, valerian root, and herbal sleep formulas can also disturb sleep formations and cause drowsiness. He concludes, “If fatigue persists, a person should consult an expert or doctor to evaluate their medication list, as unexplained laziness or tiredness is often linked to drug usage or inappropriate dosing.”
17 December,2025 02:17 PM IST | Mumbai | Maitrai AgarwalResearchers at the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali, have identified a new pathway involving nanoparticles to treat Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), said the Ministry of Science & Technology on Tuesday. Conventional Alzheimer’s therapies often target only a single pathological feature, such as amyloid aggregation or oxidative stress, yielding limited clinical benefit. However, the new therapy involves nanoparticles that integrate polyphenol with antioxidant properties found in green tea, a neurotransmitter, and an amino acid. It has the potential to treat Alzheimer’s Disease by changing the path of the progression of the disease, slowing it, improving memory, and supporting thinking skills, said the researchers in the paper, published in the journal Small. The therapy works by integrating epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) -- an antioxidant found in green tea --, dopamine -- a neurotransmitter important for mood -- and tryptophan -- an amino acid involved in many cellular functions -- into a nanoparticle called EGCG-dopamine-tryptophan nanoparticles (EDTNPs). This enables it to simultaneously target amyloid aggregation, oxidative stress, inflammation, and neuronal degeneration -- four key pathological hallmarks of Alzheimer’s. “Incorporation of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) -- a protein crucial for the survival, growth, and function of neurons onto EDTNPs (B-EDTNPs) creates a dual-action nanoplatform that not only clears neurotoxic Amyloid Beta aggregates (protein clumps that disrupt neural function and drive Alzheimer’s disease pathology) but also enhances neuronal regeneration,” said the team led by Dr. Jiban Jyoti Panda from INST, an autonomous institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DST). “This is a rare approach in Alzheimer’s therapeutics which uniquely combines antioxidant, anti-amyloid, and neurotrophic actions for the therapy,” they added. The research, conducted with support from Dr. Ashok Kumar Datusalia (NIPER Raebareli) and Dr Nisha Singh (Gujarat Biotechnology University), involves the synthesis of EDTNPs using biocompatible assembly techniques like pressure-assisted hydrothermal and electrostatic-based co-incubation methods to combine antioxidant, neurotransmitter, and amino acid components. These nanoparticles were then functionalised with BDNF, producing B-EDTNPs with enhanced neuroprotective potential. In lab experiments and mouse models, these nanoparticles disassembled toxic plaques, reduced inflammation, restored balance inside brain cells, and even improved memory and learning. Computer simulations further confirmed that the nanoparticles latch onto harmful Amyloid beta fibrils and pull them apart at the molecular level. “The research could help people with Alzheimer’s disease by offering a treatment that works on multiple levels. The nanoparticles not only remove harmful protein plaques but also reduce brain stress, inflammation, and help nerve cells grow through BDNF,” said the researchers. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
17 December,2025 12:59 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSResearchers at IIT Delhi on Tuesday announced the development of an ingestible device that can sample bacteria directly from the small intestine, opening a new window into the human gut microbiome. While not all bacteria are harmful, nearly half of all cells in the human body are microbial. These organisms line our gut and help us digest food, regulate mood, and build immunity. Yet studying them has remained difficult. Existing tools are invasive, such as endoscopy or ileostomy, or indirect, relying on stool samples that do not truly reflect conditions higher up in the digestive tract. The device, a tiny pill, once swallowed, stays shut in the stomach. It opens only in the intestine to collect bacteria, then seals itself again to keep the sample safe while moving through the gut, revealed the study, conducted in collaboration with the AIIMS, Delhi and funded by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). “To say there is a hidden universe of living microbes in our body is no exaggeration but a scientific reality -- we call it the human microbiome. Just as we send rovers to explore outer space, we need miniaturised devices to explore the inner space of the human body,” explained Prof. Sarvesh Kumar Srivastava, Principal Investigator at the Medical Microdevices and Medicine Laboratory (3MLab), CBME, IIT Delhi. “The prototype microdevice, once swallowed, can autonomously collect microbes from specific regions of the upper GI tract, allowing species-level identification of the residing microbes, among other biomarkers,” Srivastava added. The device comprises an enteric-coated gelatin cap that protects it in gastric pH (1-1.5) and disintegrates at intestinal pH (3-5), allowing luminal fluid via an inlet connected to activation and sampling chambers. The gut-sampling technology, publishing in the journal Small, has been validated in an animal model using a microdevice no larger than a grain of rice. The results showed promise without tissue injury or inflammation. “The small intestine plays a crucial role in health and disease. Understanding the microbes and chemicals being released there could be key to early disease detection, monitoring of chronic diseases, and developing more targeted treatments,” said co-senior author Dr. Samagra Agarwal from the Department of Gastroenterology and Human Nutrition Unit at AIIMS New Delhi. The researchers noted that they aim to advance this platform technology to help Indian patients in the clinic after necessary approvals. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
17 December,2025 12:47 PM IST | New Delhi | IANSADVERTISEMENT
